A short ride on the new St. Rd. 25 today brought me to Delphi. The Opera House Gallery had an open house; the courthouse rotunda was featuring a festival of trees and tonight is the Delphi house lighting contest.
But I was heading to the Canal Park for the annual Christmas at the Canal festival. ( It runs both today and Sunday, Dec. 9) This event is free and there is plenty of parking.
I hit the village first. Most of the log buildings were open, with friendly, 1840 clad, docents to welcome the visitor.
The Fouts Home had quilting displays in the beautifully restored home. This 2 story log cabin once resided at France Park. It was brought to Canal Park where the MWF guys lovingly restored it. It features a rare center fireplace, which had a warming fire going.
The volunteer in the school house had a wealth of information on the Carroll County and Hoosier rural schools.
The smithy was hard at work and had a number of pieces that would compliment any hearth or campfire set-up, not to mention many other country home uses.
The Reed-Case Home was open, fee waived. Several volunteers were on hand, including one lady singing Christmas carols. Other ladies presided over light refreshments.
Hammered dulcimer music provided by Paula Dillard was heard inside and outside. Her rendition of In the Bleak Midwinter matched the damp, cool weather as I went to the center from the village. Other musicians are on the schedule throughout the weekend.
In the center there was an excellent craft fair underway. Hand woven items, Christmas décor and ornaments made by the vendors crowded tables in the meeting room and lobby. Alpaca products, hand made bowls and decorative items were also available. Goodies, including cooked and frozen apple dumplings were for sale. Great place to pick up holiday gifts for family and friends or yourself.
Sunday Dec. 9 hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wabash and Erie Canal website (link).
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